Donovan Mitchell: A Look Back At The 2017 NBA Draft

by Jhon Lennon 52 views

The 2017 NBA Draft was a monumental event that reshaped the landscape of the league, and one name that stands out from that class is Donovan Mitchell. This article dives deep into Mitchell's journey leading up to the draft, his draft night experience, and the immediate impact he made in his rookie season. We'll explore the expectations surrounding him, the teams that passed on him, and how he ultimately landed with the Utah Jazz, setting the stage for his explosive career. For basketball enthusiasts and fans of Donovan Mitchell, this is a comprehensive look at a pivotal moment in his professional life.

Pre-Draft Profile: The Making of a Star

Before the 2017 NBA Draft, Donovan Mitchell was a promising guard out of the University of Louisville. While he wasn't considered a top-tier prospect like some of the other names in that class, scouts and analysts recognized his raw talent and potential. Let's break down his pre-draft profile:

  • College Career: Mitchell played two seasons at Louisville, showcasing his athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive prowess. In his sophomore year, he averaged 15.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. His impressive performances earned him All-ACC Second Team honors.
  • Strengths: Donovan Mitchell's key strengths included his explosive athleticism, quickness, and scoring ability. He was adept at driving to the basket, finishing strong, and creating opportunities for his teammates. Defensively, he was known for his tenacity and ability to guard multiple positions.
  • Weaknesses: Scouts noted that Mitchell needed to improve his shooting consistency and decision-making. While he showed flashes of brilliance, he sometimes struggled with turnovers and shot selection. Developing a more reliable jump shot was seen as crucial for his long-term success in the NBA.
  • NBA Combine: At the NBA Combine, Mitchell impressed scouts with his athleticism and measurements. He measured a wingspan of 6'10", which was considered exceptional for a guard of his height. His performance in drills and scrimmages further solidified his status as a lottery-level prospect.
  • Pre-Draft Buzz: Leading up to the draft, Mitchell generated significant buzz among NBA teams. His combination of athleticism, scoring potential, and defensive upside made him an attractive option for teams looking to add a dynamic guard to their roster. Mock drafts projected him to be selected anywhere from the late lottery to the mid-first round.

Draft Night: From Uncertainty to Opportunity

The 2017 NBA Draft was held on June 22, 2017, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. For Donovan Mitchell, it was a night filled with anticipation and uncertainty. Here's how his draft night unfolded:

  • The Waiting Game: As the draft progressed, Mitchell waited anxiously to hear his name called. Several teams in the lottery passed on him, leading to speculation about where he would ultimately land. The New York Knicks, who held the eighth overall pick, were rumored to be interested in him, but they ultimately selected Frank Ntilikina.
  • The Trade: Finally, with the 13th overall pick, the Denver Nuggets selected Donovan Mitchell. However, his stay in Denver was short-lived. The Nuggets had agreed to a trade with the Utah Jazz, sending Mitchell to Salt Lake City in exchange for Trey Lyles and the 24th overall pick (Tyler Lydon).
  • Reaction to the Trade: Mitchell was initially surprised by the trade, but he quickly embraced the opportunity to join the Jazz. He saw it as a chance to prove himself and contribute to a team with a strong culture and coaching staff.
  • Joining the Jazz: The Utah Jazz were an ideal fit for Donovan Mitchell. They were a team on the rise, led by head coach Quin Snyder, who had a reputation for developing young players. Mitchell joined a roster that included Rudy Gobert, who would become his long-time teammate and a key part of the Jazz's success.

Rookie Season: An Explosive Debut

Donovan Mitchell's rookie season with the Utah Jazz was nothing short of spectacular. He quickly established himself as a key player and emerged as one of the top rookies in the league. Let's take a look at some of the highlights from his rookie campaign:

  • Early Impressions: From the outset, Mitchell impressed coaches and teammates with his work ethic, athleticism, and scoring ability. He quickly earned a spot in the starting lineup and began to showcase his potential.
  • Scoring Prowess: Mitchell demonstrated his scoring prowess early in the season, averaging over 20 points per game in his first few months. He displayed a variety of offensive moves, including explosive drives to the basket, step-back jumpers, and crafty finishes around the rim.
  • Rookie of the Month: In December 2017, Donovan Mitchell was named the Western Conference Rookie of the Month. He averaged 23.1 points, 3.4 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game, leading the Jazz to a 10-3 record during the month.
  • Rising Stars Challenge: Mitchell was selected to participate in the Rising Stars Challenge at the 2018 NBA All-Star Weekend. He scored 20 points in the game, showcasing his skills on a national stage.
  • Slam Dunk Champion: One of the most memorable moments of Mitchell's rookie season was his performance in the 2018 NBA Slam Dunk Contest. He wowed the crowd with a series of creative and athletic dunks, including a tribute to Vince Carter and a dunk over multiple people. He ultimately won the competition, cementing his status as a rising star.
  • Playoff Impact: Mitchell led the Jazz to the playoffs, where they faced the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round. He averaged 24.4 points per game in the series, leading the Jazz to an upset victory in six games. His performance against established stars like Russell Westbrook and Paul George further solidified his reputation as a future star.
  • Rookie of the Year Voting: At the end of the season, Mitchell finished second in Rookie of the Year voting, losing out to Ben Simmons. However, many observers felt that Mitchell was equally deserving of the award, given his impact on the Jazz and his impressive statistics.

The Aftermath: A Star is Born

Donovan Mitchell's 2017 NBA Draft experience and his subsequent rookie season were pivotal moments in his career. He proved that he belonged in the NBA and quickly established himself as one of the league's brightest young stars. His journey from a relatively unknown prospect to a Rookie of the Year contender is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and talent.

Looking back, it's clear that the Utah Jazz made a wise decision in trading for Donovan Mitchell. He has since become the face of the franchise, leading them to multiple playoff appearances and earning All-Star honors. His explosive scoring ability, athleticism, and competitive spirit have made him a fan favorite and a respected player among his peers.

The 2017 NBA Draft class was loaded with talent, including players like Jayson Tatum, De'Aaron Fox, and Bam Adebayo. However, Donovan Mitchell has arguably exceeded expectations and emerged as one of the top players from that draft class. His story serves as an inspiration to young players everywhere, demonstrating that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

In conclusion, Donovan Mitchell's journey to the NBA is a remarkable one. From his pre-draft profile to his explosive rookie season, he has consistently defied expectations and proven himself to be a special talent. As he continues to evolve and improve, there's no telling what he will accomplish in the years to come. For fans of basketball, the story of Donovan Mitchell is a reminder of the excitement and potential that the NBA has to offer.